Atkins Library's dog therapy team is back! In response to the high turnout for last spring's events, the Library is pleased to offer students the opportunity to soothe exhausted, frazzled nerves as they plow through some long days and nights during finals by socializing with some comforting canines.

Carole Runnion, UNC Charlotte professor emeritus and Atkins Library’s former interim university librarian, launched an organization, Library Dog Therapy Group, upon her "retirement" two years ago. Its mission combines her pursuit of providing therapy dogs for those in stressful situations with her continuing love of libraries. The pooches will be offered to students for playtime, ear scratches, belly rubs and, of course, pure affection.

"These pets are certified therapy dogs who undergo an extensive training and behavior process to deal with people in stressful situations", says Stephanie Otis, Atkins Library librarian and coordinator of this effort. The dogs will be located in the atrium on the first floor, behind the Information Desk (please note that dogs are not usually allowed inside University buildings; an exception was granted for the benefit of our students). The pups will come in all shapes and sizes – large, small, smooth, fuzzy, young and old. The open visiting schedule is as follows: Thursday, Dec. 6, 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM; Sunday, Dec. 9, 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM; and Tuesday, Dec. 11, 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM.